In 2013 Weston staff Ralph and Charmaine Paterson introduced the sport of horse endurance at Weston Agricultural College.
A number of enthusiastic boys were soon captivated by the sport, which demands not only the skill of rider and his mount but also requires that the rider ensure that the condition of his horse is paramount throughout the race.
In 2013, together with the Patersons the endurance team attended a number of events and enjoyed considerable success and this year; they are once again participating in events. The first one that they have attended was in March in Bethlehem, Free State.
Four riders took part in the event. The first test was successful, when all the horses were vetted as fit to take part in the various categories. The 80km competitive race was entered by Reece Aitken-Smith on Jermaine, Angus Heubsch on Buddy as well as James Adie on Blaize. All three horses belong to Weston. Taine Louwrens entered a 60km non-competitive ride on Tracy Louw’s young horse Amra Pheonix.
The first leg of 40km was well negotiated by Reece and James, but unfortunately, they could not get Angus’ horse’s pulse down to the required 64 bpm.
During the second leg of 26km, Jermaine slipped slightly, and Reece decided to withdraw and not cause further damage to the horse.
James was able to stay in the race and with caution completed the last 14km on a tired horse. It was James’ first 80km race and his success was celebrated by his teammates, and he was dunked in the water trough. He was placed 11th on the young rider category, averaging 12kms per hour.
Taine completed his 60km ride in just over five hours, and was placed sixth in the stepladder ratings. A fifth Treverton rider, Quinton Brits competed in the 40km with his father and sister, riding a family horse.